Dehydration or hypohydration occurs when a loss of fluids exceeds fluid intake. Even a minor change in fluid concentrations can result in dehydration. It is, therefore, necessary to drink water as you lose it. When dehydrated, the human body does not function at its best and may be at risk for life-threatening diseases. Anyone can become dehydrated, but older people and young children are most susceptible.
Your breath may be telling you that your body is running low on water. Saliva has antibacterial properties, but lack of hydration can deter your body from producing enough of it. With insufficient saliva in the mouth, bacterial overgrowth is possible, and as a side effect, smelly breath. Often, dehydration is the cause of bad breath.
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